Roy 'Lee' Yates, 64

Roy “Lee” Yates passed away peacefully at his home in Big Lake, Alaska, on January 10, 2026.

Lee was born February 16, 1961 in Bonners Ferry, Idaho.  Lee attended elementary schools in Bonners Ferry and Troy, Idaho, until moving with his parents to Tucson, Arizona. Lee finished his education in Tucson as outstanding athlete in football and track. 

 After graduation, Lee moved to Alaska where he worked throughout Alaska in the construction trade including work at a number of remote Indian villages until becoming a lineman. As a lineman, Lee continued to work at various locations in Alaska until he settled into his home in Big Lake, Alaska.

Lee was an avid hunter and fishman who had a big heart and would help out anyone in need. Lee was a man of many talents including cooking.  His pizza making skills were famous among his nieces and nephews who would look forward to “Lee’s pizza night”.

Lee is survived by his mother and father, Viola and Marvin Foust; two of his brothers, Lucas Foust and Matthew Foust; his daughter, Shannon (Daniel Larrabee); his grandson, Jackson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Lee was preceded in death by his father, Jerry Yates; and his brothers, Rex Yates and Gene Yates.

A celebration of life will be held in Bonners Ferry in early summer.